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Roger Viceroy #2
The Counsel of the Cunning
2022 Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award Finalist - BEST THRILLER
Roger Viceroy faces a return to the FBI and a life he vacated long ago until a knock on his front door announces the presence of billionaire and former U.S. Senator, Jürgen Sandt.
The past has come back to rear its ugly head. Sandt stands on his threshold for a reason: a decade prior the senator’s only son disappeared into the jungles of Guatemala, and Sandt has come to convince Viceroy that further investigation is now necessary. A package left mysteriously outside the family estate, opens the door to the possibility that his son is still very much alive.
Viceroy and his team agree to take on the hunt. Their search steers them from the back streets of Milwaukee to the stealthy corridors of Washington, D.C.—an eerie trek that will ultimately lead to an ancient site that supposedly doesn’t exist.
As Viceroy closes in on the truth, a parallel plot emerges. Not only could it point to the reason behind the cryptic disappearance of Bertram Sandt, but it could also launch a deadly battle that will put millions of lives at stake. On pure instinct, Viceroy knows nothing is adding up. Somehow, somewhere they missed a clue, and if it’s not discovered soon…it may be too late.
“Steven Harms rocks it in The Counsel of the Cunning. Murder, treachery, drugs, and a deadly trek through the Guatemalan jungle. My kind of story.”
—William Nikkel, Amazon Bestselling Author of Deadly Tide
Roger Viceroy faces a return to the FBI and a life he vacated long ago until a knock on his front door announces the presence of billionaire and former U.S. Senator, Jürgen Sandt.
The past has come back to rear its ugly head. Sandt stands on his threshold for a reason: a decade prior the senator’s only son disappeared into the jungles of Guatemala, and Sandt has come to convince Viceroy that further investigation is now necessary. A package left mysteriously outside the family estate, opens the door to the possibility that his son is still very much alive.
Viceroy and his team agree to take on the hunt. Their search steers them from the back streets of Milwaukee to the stealthy corridors of Washington, D.C.—an eerie trek that will ultimately lead to an ancient site that supposedly doesn’t exist.
As Viceroy closes in on the truth, a parallel plot emerges. Not only could it point to the reason behind the cryptic disappearance of Bertram Sandt, but it could also launch a deadly battle that will put millions of lives at stake. On pure instinct, Viceroy knows nothing is adding up. Somehow, somewhere they missed a clue, and if it’s not discovered soon…it may be too late.
“Steven Harms rocks it in The Counsel of the Cunning. Murder, treachery, drugs, and a deadly trek through the Guatemalan jungle. My kind of story.”
—William Nikkel, Amazon Bestselling Author of Deadly Tide
- GenresFiction
268 pages, ebook
Published November 9, 2021
About the author
Steven C. Harms
3 books71 followersSteven C. Harms is a professional sports, broadcast and digital media business executive with a career spanning over thirty years across the NBA, NFL, and MLB. He's dealt with Fortune 500 companies, major consumer brands, professional athletes, and multi-platform integrated sports partnerships and media advertising campaigns. He's an accomplished playwright having written and produced a wildly successful theatrical production which led him to tackling his debut novel, Give Place to Wrath, the first in the Roger Viceroy detective series. The second book, The Counsel of the Cunning, launched November 9, 2021. A native of Wisconsin, he graduated from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He now resides in the Milwaukee area as a sponsorship executive.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 9, 2022
I was gifted this by the author for my honest review.
I would rate more of a 3.5⭐️ but I do think it deserves to show on Goodreads closer to a 4 than a 3 and since I can’t do 1/2 stars I went with the 4.
This was a fast paced action packed thriller. It is the 2nd book in the Roger Viceroy series. I have not read the first book but I did not need to as this book stands alone and keeps you turning the pages.
Roger Viceroy is the head of a detective agency who works with “Silk” and Regina. They are very well fleshed out characters. Each with their own story which endears you to all and makes you route for this team. They are hired by a wealthy Milwaukee man, Juergen Sandt to reopen the missing persons case of his son Bertram. Bertram went missing in Guatemala 10 years prior while on a mission trip.
This story is filled with drugs, murder, addiction, action, and more. Parts did keep me guessing throughout and I was even surprised by a couple of conclusions at the end… which I love!
If you like fast paced action thrillers/crime you will certainly enjoy this book. I often thought while reading that it would make a good movie.
I would rate more of a 3.5⭐️ but I do think it deserves to show on Goodreads closer to a 4 than a 3 and since I can’t do 1/2 stars I went with the 4.
This was a fast paced action packed thriller. It is the 2nd book in the Roger Viceroy series. I have not read the first book but I did not need to as this book stands alone and keeps you turning the pages.
Roger Viceroy is the head of a detective agency who works with “Silk” and Regina. They are very well fleshed out characters. Each with their own story which endears you to all and makes you route for this team. They are hired by a wealthy Milwaukee man, Juergen Sandt to reopen the missing persons case of his son Bertram. Bertram went missing in Guatemala 10 years prior while on a mission trip.
This story is filled with drugs, murder, addiction, action, and more. Parts did keep me guessing throughout and I was even surprised by a couple of conclusions at the end… which I love!
If you like fast paced action thrillers/crime you will certainly enjoy this book. I often thought while reading that it would make a good movie.
February 1, 2022
Quick fun paced action book!!! I really enjoyed the story, and the characters, and how it all came together at the end! Can’t wait to read more from this author.
March 22, 2022
“𝙷𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚌𝚛𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚜𝚜, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚎𝚕 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚞𝚗𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚊 𝚚𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔 𝚎𝚗𝚍.“
When Steven C. Harms sent me a copy of Book 2 of the Roger Viceroy series, I was concerned that I would be somewhat confused while reading considering that I haven’t yet read Book 1, 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘞𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩. I needn’t be concerned, however. Although there were a few callbacks to the first novel, 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘭 reads like a stand-alone. This engaging work of crime fiction is one for fans of conspiracy thrillers and police procedurals, alike. It felt like a mix between Dan Brown and Ian Rankin, filled with car chases and shootouts through the bustling streets of Milwaukee and jungle treks and drug cartels in the lush landscape of Guatemala. The scenery is vibrant and the imagery is alive.
“𝙳𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚝, 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚊 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚛𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚊 𝚋𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗𝚏𝚞𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚢 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚛𝚘𝚌𝚔 𝚏𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚓𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚜𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚝𝚜 𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚑 𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚕
𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚠.“
Through mixed and multiple POVs, short and fast-paced chapters, and complex yet likeable characters, we are treated to a very well-written narrative that is both slow burn and action packed at the same time. Although there are a lot of moving parts and characters, this engaging adventure is a great read. The rapid fire ending alone is worth your time.
“𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚓𝚞𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚖𝚎𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚢. 𝚃𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝚑𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛, 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚊𝚢𝚑𝚎𝚖.“
Thank you to Steven C. Harms & Suspense Publishing for the
e-book.
When Steven C. Harms sent me a copy of Book 2 of the Roger Viceroy series, I was concerned that I would be somewhat confused while reading considering that I haven’t yet read Book 1, 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘞𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘩. I needn’t be concerned, however. Although there were a few callbacks to the first novel, 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘭 reads like a stand-alone. This engaging work of crime fiction is one for fans of conspiracy thrillers and police procedurals, alike. It felt like a mix between Dan Brown and Ian Rankin, filled with car chases and shootouts through the bustling streets of Milwaukee and jungle treks and drug cartels in the lush landscape of Guatemala. The scenery is vibrant and the imagery is alive.
“𝙳𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚠 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚝, 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚛𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚜𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚊 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚛𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚊 𝚋𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚌𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗𝚏𝚞𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚢 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚛𝚘𝚌𝚔 𝚏𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚓𝚞𝚝𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚌𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚏𝚜𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚝𝚜 𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚜𝚑 𝚙𝚘𝚘𝚕
𝚋𝚎𝚕𝚘𝚠.“
Through mixed and multiple POVs, short and fast-paced chapters, and complex yet likeable characters, we are treated to a very well-written narrative that is both slow burn and action packed at the same time. Although there are a lot of moving parts and characters, this engaging adventure is a great read. The rapid fire ending alone is worth your time.
“𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚓𝚞𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎 𝚊 𝚍𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚖𝚎𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚢. 𝚃𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢, 𝚑𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛, 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚖𝚊𝚢𝚑𝚎𝚖.“
Thank you to Steven C. Harms & Suspense Publishing for the
e-book.
March 22, 2022
*First, a major thank you to Steven C. Harms for a digital copy in exchange for an honest review!*
As a fast-paced read, this book is filled with action and thrills! This is a standalone novel, but there is a first book that I highly recommend reading it! In this novel, the characters are wonderful and the plot will have you finishing this in one sitting!
As the head of a detective agency, Roger Viceroy wants to return to the FBI. When the past comes back to haunt him, Roger works alongside Jürgen Sandt, a former U.S. Senator now a billionaire who wants help in uncovering his son’s disappearance. His son disappeared in the deep jungles of Guatemala, receiving information that his son could be alive. Sandt needs Viceory and his team to help uncover the truth. Roger Viceroy agrees, discovering dark secrets along the way.
This is a thriller and it will leave you guessing until the very end. Harms creates a suspenseful and enthralling story, leaving readers to fill in the blanks. What I like most about this book are the action-packed aspects and the characters.
A must-read!
As a fast-paced read, this book is filled with action and thrills! This is a standalone novel, but there is a first book that I highly recommend reading it! In this novel, the characters are wonderful and the plot will have you finishing this in one sitting!
As the head of a detective agency, Roger Viceroy wants to return to the FBI. When the past comes back to haunt him, Roger works alongside Jürgen Sandt, a former U.S. Senator now a billionaire who wants help in uncovering his son’s disappearance. His son disappeared in the deep jungles of Guatemala, receiving information that his son could be alive. Sandt needs Viceory and his team to help uncover the truth. Roger Viceroy agrees, discovering dark secrets along the way.
This is a thriller and it will leave you guessing until the very end. Harms creates a suspenseful and enthralling story, leaving readers to fill in the blanks. What I like most about this book are the action-packed aspects and the characters.
A must-read!
March 14, 2022
I was gifted this book by the author and I’m so glad I was, it was a fast paced book from start to end. The book truly had a bit of everything going on. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book like this, it was completely original and I really enjoyed it.
July 31, 2022
A great action-packed thriller that is actually Book 2 but can be read as a standalone. I was definitely hooked on this story from page 1. Solid characters, interesting plot and a book you won't want to put down.
Thank you to the author for this #gifted copy. I'm so glad I've found a new action-adventure Thriller author to follow! Opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you to the author for this #gifted copy. I'm so glad I've found a new action-adventure Thriller author to follow! Opinions expressed are my own.
August 4, 2021
The Counsel of the Cunning is the second Roger Viceroy novel, and Steven C. Harms has yet again excelled at weaving a complex, action-packed plot. It can be read as a standalone easily enough; however, reading Give Place to Wrath (the first book) beforehand allowed me to have a deeper initial understanding of the characters and the agency Viceroy worked for, and it made the tragedy hit harder. The start of The Counsel of the Cunning felt slightly scattered because there was so much to take in. The writing didn't feel as tight. Given that, I didn’t enjoy this installment quite as much as the first, but everything came together and made more sense as the novel progressed.
Like the first book, The Counsel of the Cunning had great characters (including some interesting additions to the cast), a well-developed plot, and nail-biting suspense. Viceroy and his team kept the same dynamic I enjoyed in Give Place to Wrath, but each character gained more depth. I appreciated how different this plot was from the first novel, and I loved the intriguing new scenery. I also liked that this book didn't have the level of graphic content the first one did. In conclusion, though I enjoyed the first book more, The Counsel of the Cunning was a pulse-pounding work of detective fiction. I'd love to read the next installment. Mystery lovers won't want to miss the enthralling Roger Viceroy series.
(Disclaimer: I received a free digital advance review copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and are honest and unbiased.)
Trigger warning: This work contains some scenes of violence, drug use, profanity, and themes of grief and loss.
Like the first book, The Counsel of the Cunning had great characters (including some interesting additions to the cast), a well-developed plot, and nail-biting suspense. Viceroy and his team kept the same dynamic I enjoyed in Give Place to Wrath, but each character gained more depth. I appreciated how different this plot was from the first novel, and I loved the intriguing new scenery. I also liked that this book didn't have the level of graphic content the first one did. In conclusion, though I enjoyed the first book more, The Counsel of the Cunning was a pulse-pounding work of detective fiction. I'd love to read the next installment. Mystery lovers won't want to miss the enthralling Roger Viceroy series.
(Disclaimer: I received a free digital advance review copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own and are honest and unbiased.)
Trigger warning: This work contains some scenes of violence, drug use, profanity, and themes of grief and loss.
November 8, 2021
This is the second book in the Viceroy series, though I did not read the first one. I found the book had so many characters in the first 28 chapters that it was a little hard to keep them straight and follow the plot at the same time. There are many characters in the book along with Viceroy’s team and those they had contact with prior to this particular book. The plot can be separate, but reading the first book may help you to know the characters better. If you have not read the other book, my suggestion would be to write them down and a little bit about them. I did this and it was easier for me to follow. The book is complex and is an action packed book that for me was a good read.
Roger Viceroy, along with his co-workers, Regina and Silk, were employed by the FBI until their unit was shut down. Coincidentally, they were sought out by Jurgen I Sandy to uncover the truth as to whether his son was dead or alive.
The author wrote the book so the reader had to connect the dots as to who was “on the good side” or “bad side”. Author did a good job with this which keeps you reading to connect the characters and the clues.
There is a place in the book where he visits his wife and unborn child’s gravesite on a particular date, a particular time and he visits for an exact time frame. This had me very very intrigued as to why and how their death was intertwined in the book.
All in all a good book and I would recommend to others. Thank you to @partnersincrimesvbt for an ARC copy. This review and opinions are mine alone.
Roger Viceroy, along with his co-workers, Regina and Silk, were employed by the FBI until their unit was shut down. Coincidentally, they were sought out by Jurgen I Sandy to uncover the truth as to whether his son was dead or alive.
The author wrote the book so the reader had to connect the dots as to who was “on the good side” or “bad side”. Author did a good job with this which keeps you reading to connect the characters and the clues.
There is a place in the book where he visits his wife and unborn child’s gravesite on a particular date, a particular time and he visits for an exact time frame. This had me very very intrigued as to why and how their death was intertwined in the book.
All in all a good book and I would recommend to others. Thank you to @partnersincrimesvbt for an ARC copy. This review and opinions are mine alone.
November 26, 2021
This is the second in a series and if, like me, you have not read the first one, the beginning of the novel may be a bit confusing. Viceroy, the hero, apparently had a life and career changing experience in the first book. Reading the first book will help understand the beginning of this one and the job he decides to take.
Harms has the style of writing that produces an exciting scene but then he ends the chapter in mid excitement and starts another chapter, going to a different location and major character. I felt the story telling was fragmented. First of all by not completely working through the scene and then by jumping around to a different part of the plot. The different people and places do come together in the end but getting to that cohesion was a bit of a rough journey. The plot is very complex as evidenced by the lengthy denouement.
And I have a pet peeve. At the beginning of the book, a very intelligent scientist goes missing. “She was never seen again.” (63/4424) That might be exciting writing but it is a lie. No spoiler here so I'll just say that the suspense heightened statement is not true and that bugged me.
This is a novel for readers who like a plot of one man against a powerful and evil individual who wants to control the world, so to speak. There is lots of suspense and travels to exotic locations. In the end, I did enjoy the novel.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Harms has the style of writing that produces an exciting scene but then he ends the chapter in mid excitement and starts another chapter, going to a different location and major character. I felt the story telling was fragmented. First of all by not completely working through the scene and then by jumping around to a different part of the plot. The different people and places do come together in the end but getting to that cohesion was a bit of a rough journey. The plot is very complex as evidenced by the lengthy denouement.
And I have a pet peeve. At the beginning of the book, a very intelligent scientist goes missing. “She was never seen again.” (63/4424) That might be exciting writing but it is a lie. No spoiler here so I'll just say that the suspense heightened statement is not true and that bugged me.
This is a novel for readers who like a plot of one man against a powerful and evil individual who wants to control the world, so to speak. There is lots of suspense and travels to exotic locations. In the end, I did enjoy the novel.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
August 25, 2022
The Counsel Of The Cunning by Steven C. Harms
3.5 rounded up to a 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First I would just like to thank @stevencharms for reaching out and gifting me a copy for an honest review!
This was a good quick fast past read.. Set in Guatemala.
I love books with short chapters that still deliver a thrill!
Full of equal amounts of murder, mystery and drugs to fill your detective - like hearts.
I enjoy books that are part of a series but can also be read as a standalone and this book was just that… it flowed nicely. I just wish I could have read the first installment for a little more character background as the beginning was a little hard to follow.
I felt as though the book read as a movie and is definitely action packed to keep you interested which is also a plus! Some twists I didn’t see coming at the end but it all came together seamlessly.
So I do recommend this read for those who like action packed thrillers but maybe also read book 1! ☺️
3.5 rounded up to a 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First I would just like to thank @stevencharms for reaching out and gifting me a copy for an honest review!
This was a good quick fast past read.. Set in Guatemala.
I love books with short chapters that still deliver a thrill!
Full of equal amounts of murder, mystery and drugs to fill your detective - like hearts.
I enjoy books that are part of a series but can also be read as a standalone and this book was just that… it flowed nicely. I just wish I could have read the first installment for a little more character background as the beginning was a little hard to follow.
I felt as though the book read as a movie and is definitely action packed to keep you interested which is also a plus! Some twists I didn’t see coming at the end but it all came together seamlessly.
So I do recommend this read for those who like action packed thrillers but maybe also read book 1! ☺️
November 8, 2021
I loved the first Viceroy book. It had everything I wanted in it - a tortured detective, clever murders, a compelling killer, and multiple POVs. I couldn't wait to dive into this one.
This one was markedly different than the first. It's not to say it was bad, it was just different. Whereas I would say the first one was closer to a standard serial killer thriller, this one could be called an "Holmesian adventure-filled conspiracy tale". The final chapter made it all worth it.
I liked the new characters, and seeing the growth in the returning. I think I would like an interquel, as a lot changed between these two. I definitely liked the first one much better, but this one was still enjoyable, especially if you go in expecting more a slow burn mystery instead of the breakneck thrills of the first.
Thank you to PICT for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
This one was markedly different than the first. It's not to say it was bad, it was just different. Whereas I would say the first one was closer to a standard serial killer thriller, this one could be called an "Holmesian adventure-filled conspiracy tale". The final chapter made it all worth it.
I liked the new characters, and seeing the growth in the returning. I think I would like an interquel, as a lot changed between these two. I definitely liked the first one much better, but this one was still enjoyable, especially if you go in expecting more a slow burn mystery instead of the breakneck thrills of the first.
Thank you to PICT for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
November 24, 2021
Are there any good guys? Well, except for Roger Viceroy’s team. There are a lot of people who seem like good guys, but most of them are bad guys in disguise.
Roger is on the search for a guy who disappeared ten years previously. But recently a clue turned up that suggests Bertram is still alive.
The team ends up in a jungle in South America. Can they really trust people to guide them safely to their destination?
All is not as it appears to be. So very many people are hooked on a new illegal drug and will do anything to get their next fix.
I couldn’t turn the pages in this book fast enough. It’s a good thing I don’t have any little ones running around here. They would get really hungry as I wasn’t about to stop reading long enough to feed anyone.
Thank you, Mr. Harms. You have a new fan.
***Book received from PICT without charge.***
Roger is on the search for a guy who disappeared ten years previously. But recently a clue turned up that suggests Bertram is still alive.
The team ends up in a jungle in South America. Can they really trust people to guide them safely to their destination?
All is not as it appears to be. So very many people are hooked on a new illegal drug and will do anything to get their next fix.
I couldn’t turn the pages in this book fast enough. It’s a good thing I don’t have any little ones running around here. They would get really hungry as I wasn’t about to stop reading long enough to feed anyone.
Thank you, Mr. Harms. You have a new fan.
***Book received from PICT without charge.***
December 1, 2021
The Counsel of the Cunning takes us from Washington, D.C. to the jungles of Guatemala, where people disappear and political conspiracy abounds.
This is a plot-driven story, full of intrigue and complexities. There’s a lot going on, and sometimes the action feels a little chaotic and fragmented. Issues eventually connect and entwine, but the details require your attention.
While this is only the second book in the Roger Viceroy series, I felt a disconnect at the beginning because I didn’t read the first book. Viceroy apparently had life-altering experiences in book one, which are referenced but not explained, so I was initially a little lost as we jumped right into the action here. I recommend starting with Give Place to Wrath, the first book in this series.
*I received a free copy as part of the Partners in Crime book tour.*
This is a plot-driven story, full of intrigue and complexities. There’s a lot going on, and sometimes the action feels a little chaotic and fragmented. Issues eventually connect and entwine, but the details require your attention.
While this is only the second book in the Roger Viceroy series, I felt a disconnect at the beginning because I didn’t read the first book. Viceroy apparently had life-altering experiences in book one, which are referenced but not explained, so I was initially a little lost as we jumped right into the action here. I recommend starting with Give Place to Wrath, the first book in this series.
*I received a free copy as part of the Partners in Crime book tour.*
December 3, 2021
The second book in the Roger Viceroy series grabbed my attention from the beginning! In a world filled with a new addictive drug, high up political officials who are not what they claim to be, kidnapping and murder galore, it takes Roger Viceroy and his team to uncover all of the players in this suspense novel! Author Steven C. Harms has began a series that will keep the reader wanting more! I absolutely love the fact that Author Harms does not reveal too many clues as to the identity of the bad guy. It's always a shock when they are unmasked at the end! I cannot wait to see what this magnificent Author has in store for us next! I was gifted a copy of this ARC from Author Steven C. Harms in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are truly my own!
November 25, 2021
If you enjoy suspense book, READ THIS l
Great book by an up and coming author. It's only his 2nd book but Steven Harms creates intreague and suspense like a veteran writer. Excellent characters and with all of plot's twists and turns, I couldnt put this book down! Can't wait to read about Roger Viceroy's NEXT assignment.
Great book by an up and coming author. It's only his 2nd book but Steven Harms creates intreague and suspense like a veteran writer. Excellent characters and with all of plot's twists and turns, I couldnt put this book down! Can't wait to read about Roger Viceroy's NEXT assignment.
February 26, 2022
This mystery launches quickly and connections between characters become clearer as the story unfolds. Clever schemes and a few twists in the plot make it a fast and enjoyable read.
December 7, 2021
What an unpredictable thriller! Novelist Steven C. Harms in The Counsel of the Cunning plops us down in Milwaukee, where we first encounter Detective Roger Viceroy. His Midwest Region Special Crimes Unit has been shut down owing to budget cuts. This is despite the agency’s successes, including the prevention of a former governor’s assassination and the arrest of her criminal husband.
Viceroy ponders a few opportunities where he can use his detective skills. These are put aside when a former wealthy United States Senator, Jürgen Sandt, shows up on his doorsteps. Sandt makes a terrific offer for Viceroy to come and work for him with his colleagues Regina Cortez and Trevor “Silk” Moreland. They would function as Sandt’s own detective agency and work from Sandt’s estate.
Their assignment would be to find Sandt’s son, Bertram. He vanished without a trace ten years ago while on a mission trip in the jungles of Guatemala. Although there is merely circumstantial evidence, Sandt is convinced that Bertram is still alive.
We learn that someone had recently left a pouch that was pinned on the gate of his estate. Viceroy knows from Sandt that he gave his son a bookmark before boarding the plane for Guatemala. The satchel belonged to someone named Theo Gandy, and it contained the damaged bookmark.
Gandy had been dispatched to Guatemala to find Bertram, and he likewise has perished. The bookmark was damaged, but a part remained with a cross and scripture writings around the edges containing a few legible words, notably, “Therefore go” and “Spirit.”
Viceroy arranges with someone he knows to place him on a cargo plane to sneak into Guatemala without detection. The aircraft will include a small group of passengers who are part of a mission team to help the poor and evangelize. The missionaries would not be aware of his presence.
Little does Viceroy, Regina, and Silk know with the events that follow what awaits them when they agree to take on the assignment. Their search for Sandt’s missing son will involve two continents, and will include a significant drug operation, murder, a dangerous plot that will affect millions of people, mixed in with billions of dollars.
The team is led into territory that intersects with a potent weird drug called “screed,” the most potent narcotic on the planet. It is a kind of berry, and you are immediately hooked on it when you inhale it.
Into the picture is a devious character, who has hatched an ingenious plan where a world-class scientist in biomedical engineering is kidnapped. The scientist’s passion is molecular manipulation.
While in confinement, she is compelled to develop a unique drug that would help “screed” addicts tolerate their addiction but never cure it. The economic importance of this new drug is limitless, especially if you can have a pharmaceutical company gain exclusive worldwide distribution rights. The business model was to hook those of wealth and then ransom their life. Pay up or die.
To help him in his search for Bertram, Sandt directs Viceroy to approach Cesar Quintero, a highly regarded Guatemalan social and unofficial political and industrial lobbyist in Washington.
Supposedly, Quintero would facilitate the team bypassing traditional channels and keep the search undercover. The challenge on Viceroy’s mind concerning Quintero is his reliability? Is he somehow entangled in the disappearance of Bertram? `
When Viceroy meets with Quintero, he brings up the name “The Ghost of Guatemala.” Quintero chuckles and points out to Viceroy that urban folklore has very little relevance on the search for Bertram. He would waste his time to even contemplate that such a character exists or is implicated in Bertram’s disappearance.
What we have is a haunting and bloodcurdling story where Harms has skillfully woven two strong plot lines that we believe in every detail and landscape. There is a great deal to challenge readers to piece together what is happening and figure out how the dots will be connected. As the stakes become higher, Harms summons excellent tension and suspense requiring close attention. The unthinkable is alarmingly plausible, which invites questioning and the “what if” scenario.
The insertion of several diverse characters into the plot requires a fair amount of concentration to keep them sorted out and figure out their respective roles in the plot twists.
Follow Here https://waa.ai/qZfo To Read Norm's Interview With Steven C. Harms
Viceroy ponders a few opportunities where he can use his detective skills. These are put aside when a former wealthy United States Senator, Jürgen Sandt, shows up on his doorsteps. Sandt makes a terrific offer for Viceroy to come and work for him with his colleagues Regina Cortez and Trevor “Silk” Moreland. They would function as Sandt’s own detective agency and work from Sandt’s estate.
Their assignment would be to find Sandt’s son, Bertram. He vanished without a trace ten years ago while on a mission trip in the jungles of Guatemala. Although there is merely circumstantial evidence, Sandt is convinced that Bertram is still alive.
We learn that someone had recently left a pouch that was pinned on the gate of his estate. Viceroy knows from Sandt that he gave his son a bookmark before boarding the plane for Guatemala. The satchel belonged to someone named Theo Gandy, and it contained the damaged bookmark.
Gandy had been dispatched to Guatemala to find Bertram, and he likewise has perished. The bookmark was damaged, but a part remained with a cross and scripture writings around the edges containing a few legible words, notably, “Therefore go” and “Spirit.”
Viceroy arranges with someone he knows to place him on a cargo plane to sneak into Guatemala without detection. The aircraft will include a small group of passengers who are part of a mission team to help the poor and evangelize. The missionaries would not be aware of his presence.
Little does Viceroy, Regina, and Silk know with the events that follow what awaits them when they agree to take on the assignment. Their search for Sandt’s missing son will involve two continents, and will include a significant drug operation, murder, a dangerous plot that will affect millions of people, mixed in with billions of dollars.
The team is led into territory that intersects with a potent weird drug called “screed,” the most potent narcotic on the planet. It is a kind of berry, and you are immediately hooked on it when you inhale it.
Into the picture is a devious character, who has hatched an ingenious plan where a world-class scientist in biomedical engineering is kidnapped. The scientist’s passion is molecular manipulation.
While in confinement, she is compelled to develop a unique drug that would help “screed” addicts tolerate their addiction but never cure it. The economic importance of this new drug is limitless, especially if you can have a pharmaceutical company gain exclusive worldwide distribution rights. The business model was to hook those of wealth and then ransom their life. Pay up or die.
To help him in his search for Bertram, Sandt directs Viceroy to approach Cesar Quintero, a highly regarded Guatemalan social and unofficial political and industrial lobbyist in Washington.
Supposedly, Quintero would facilitate the team bypassing traditional channels and keep the search undercover. The challenge on Viceroy’s mind concerning Quintero is his reliability? Is he somehow entangled in the disappearance of Bertram? `
When Viceroy meets with Quintero, he brings up the name “The Ghost of Guatemala.” Quintero chuckles and points out to Viceroy that urban folklore has very little relevance on the search for Bertram. He would waste his time to even contemplate that such a character exists or is implicated in Bertram’s disappearance.
What we have is a haunting and bloodcurdling story where Harms has skillfully woven two strong plot lines that we believe in every detail and landscape. There is a great deal to challenge readers to piece together what is happening and figure out how the dots will be connected. As the stakes become higher, Harms summons excellent tension and suspense requiring close attention. The unthinkable is alarmingly plausible, which invites questioning and the “what if” scenario.
The insertion of several diverse characters into the plot requires a fair amount of concentration to keep them sorted out and figure out their respective roles in the plot twists.
Follow Here https://waa.ai/qZfo To Read Norm's Interview With Steven C. Harms
February 28, 2022
A US Senator's son went missing on a church mission trip in Guatemala a decade ago, when a clue suddenly appears to suggest he is still alive. Roger Viceroy is hired to find him or find out what really happened. His team begins to follow two distinct trails that reveal a much larger plot that threatens many more and time is running out. Drug Cartels, corrupt government officials, FDA approvals, politics, and lots of tense chases keep the action moving.
I really enjoy reading thrillers, and this story definitely had me wanting to turn the page! It had short chapters that kept the action moving quickly while still managing to reveal bits of the characters as the story unfolded, creating a level of depth without sacrificing momentum. I think if I had read the first book it would have more character development but it didn't feel lacking in this as a standalone. The plot was complicated but not overly so and it all came together with a good twist in the end.
My only negative was that there were a few editing misses that caught my eye, but nothing that detracted me from the story, and I could just be picky!
This story does have a small sprinkling of faith in it, but it is not the main focus or driver of the story. I thought it was included in a seamless way with the characters without being forced which I really liked.
Overall I really liked this story! It was a quick read once I carved out the time, and I would recommend it to suspense and thriller readers!
Thank you to @stevencharms for a copy of your book! I know just for whom I will buy a copy!
I really enjoy reading thrillers, and this story definitely had me wanting to turn the page! It had short chapters that kept the action moving quickly while still managing to reveal bits of the characters as the story unfolded, creating a level of depth without sacrificing momentum. I think if I had read the first book it would have more character development but it didn't feel lacking in this as a standalone. The plot was complicated but not overly so and it all came together with a good twist in the end.
My only negative was that there were a few editing misses that caught my eye, but nothing that detracted me from the story, and I could just be picky!
This story does have a small sprinkling of faith in it, but it is not the main focus or driver of the story. I thought it was included in a seamless way with the characters without being forced which I really liked.
Overall I really liked this story! It was a quick read once I carved out the time, and I would recommend it to suspense and thriller readers!
Thank you to @stevencharms for a copy of your book! I know just for whom I will buy a copy!
April 15, 2022
🎁 Thank you @stevencharms for the #gifted copy of #TheCounselOfTheCunning !! Available now!
The Counsel of the Cunning by Steven C. Harms
🔍 Mystery
😳 Suspense
🕵🏼 Atmospheric
💨 Fast Paced
I really enjoyed this atmospheric, fast paced novel.
Roger Viceroy is on the hunt for the missing son of a former U.S. Senator that leads him to ancient site that supposedly doesn’t exist and a seedy underworld of corruption.
📝 I thought this story was well crafted. I loved the short chapters and the to-the-point writing style.
🔍 There are multiple mysteries in this one that run parallel to one another throughout. They kept me guessing and questioning everything along the way. I was majorly side eyeing some characters the entire time, not sure who to trust! 😂
😳 The suspense is palpable in this novel. I was definitely on edge while reading. Some sequences seemed to fly by bc I was reading so fast to keep up.
🕵🏼 I loved the atmosphere of this story. From deep in the jungle to in the detectives offices, everything just felt right.
💨 This is a fast paced read that will keep you on your toes.
💜 One of my favorite parts of this novel was the deep dives into Viceroy’s thought process, unfiltered. I liked being able to see what he was thinking in the moment.
📚 This is the second book of the Roger Viceroy Series but it is written as a stand-alone.
If you’re looking for an atmospheric suspense novel this would be a good pick for you!
The Counsel of the Cunning by Steven C. Harms
🔍 Mystery
😳 Suspense
🕵🏼 Atmospheric
💨 Fast Paced
I really enjoyed this atmospheric, fast paced novel.
Roger Viceroy is on the hunt for the missing son of a former U.S. Senator that leads him to ancient site that supposedly doesn’t exist and a seedy underworld of corruption.
📝 I thought this story was well crafted. I loved the short chapters and the to-the-point writing style.
🔍 There are multiple mysteries in this one that run parallel to one another throughout. They kept me guessing and questioning everything along the way. I was majorly side eyeing some characters the entire time, not sure who to trust! 😂
😳 The suspense is palpable in this novel. I was definitely on edge while reading. Some sequences seemed to fly by bc I was reading so fast to keep up.
🕵🏼 I loved the atmosphere of this story. From deep in the jungle to in the detectives offices, everything just felt right.
💨 This is a fast paced read that will keep you on your toes.
💜 One of my favorite parts of this novel was the deep dives into Viceroy’s thought process, unfiltered. I liked being able to see what he was thinking in the moment.
📚 This is the second book of the Roger Viceroy Series but it is written as a stand-alone.
If you’re looking for an atmospheric suspense novel this would be a good pick for you!
April 29, 2022
I was gifted this book by the author for an honest review. This story is one part mystery, one part a spy type thriller and all action!
The story follows Roger Viceroy (could you have a cooler last name?) and his associates, Regina and " Silk". Having left the FBI, he is contracted by a billionaire, Jürgen Sandt, to find his son who was lost in a Guatemalan jungle a decade before. Having believed his son dead, its a huge shock when evidence surfaces that he may in fact still be alive.
Amidst the backdrop of finding a missing billionaires son, is the story of a powerful, yet mysterious drug called screed. Given in the form of a berry, its highly addictive from the very first bite and those that don't get a fix risk death from withdrawal. Viceroy figures out that the missing son and the drug cartel are interlinked and the cartels are trying to mainstream screed in the U.S.
This whole story is one big puzzle. A page turning, action packed thriller that will keep you on the seat of your recliner and you will not want to put it down. Even though the story is quick paced it doesn't take from the depth of the development of the story. The author is able to weave a crazy web, yet all things come together at the end in a way that makes sense. I really liked this book and I am thankful to the author to sending me a copy. If you enjoy a thrilling suspenseful story, then this is the book for you.
The story follows Roger Viceroy (could you have a cooler last name?) and his associates, Regina and " Silk". Having left the FBI, he is contracted by a billionaire, Jürgen Sandt, to find his son who was lost in a Guatemalan jungle a decade before. Having believed his son dead, its a huge shock when evidence surfaces that he may in fact still be alive.
Amidst the backdrop of finding a missing billionaires son, is the story of a powerful, yet mysterious drug called screed. Given in the form of a berry, its highly addictive from the very first bite and those that don't get a fix risk death from withdrawal. Viceroy figures out that the missing son and the drug cartel are interlinked and the cartels are trying to mainstream screed in the U.S.
This whole story is one big puzzle. A page turning, action packed thriller that will keep you on the seat of your recliner and you will not want to put it down. Even though the story is quick paced it doesn't take from the depth of the development of the story. The author is able to weave a crazy web, yet all things come together at the end in a way that makes sense. I really liked this book and I am thankful to the author to sending me a copy. If you enjoy a thrilling suspenseful story, then this is the book for you.
February 8, 2022
This a 4.5 start review!
Reading this book reminds me of watching an action movie. There were so many things going on in this book. Not once did I feel lost. Everything comes together and is wrapped up in a nice little bow. We start in Guatemala go to Milwaukee to Texas to DC and loop back around again. This is not a sit back and relax type of book. There are gunfights, car chases and foot chases. You go on a wild ride. Street drugs and prescription drugs. Politicians trying to get FDA approval for drugs. This is the 2nd book in the Roger Viceroy series. I have not read the 1st book, but I didn't miss anything. I loved all the characters from Viceroy to his associates, Regina and Silk to Silk's street buddies and former law enforcement friends. Although this book is under 300 pages, it wasn't necessarily a "quick-read", but the chapters were relatively short. This was a page-turner, but I had to put the book down every couple of chapters in order to absorb the story. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you grew up watching the action-packed movies. (I totally picture Liam Neeson as Roger). I definitely plan to get the 1st book and can't wait for the 3rd. Thank you, Steven Harms for a copy of this book.
Reading this book reminds me of watching an action movie. There were so many things going on in this book. Not once did I feel lost. Everything comes together and is wrapped up in a nice little bow. We start in Guatemala go to Milwaukee to Texas to DC and loop back around again. This is not a sit back and relax type of book. There are gunfights, car chases and foot chases. You go on a wild ride. Street drugs and prescription drugs. Politicians trying to get FDA approval for drugs. This is the 2nd book in the Roger Viceroy series. I have not read the 1st book, but I didn't miss anything. I loved all the characters from Viceroy to his associates, Regina and Silk to Silk's street buddies and former law enforcement friends. Although this book is under 300 pages, it wasn't necessarily a "quick-read", but the chapters were relatively short. This was a page-turner, but I had to put the book down every couple of chapters in order to absorb the story. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you grew up watching the action-packed movies. (I totally picture Liam Neeson as Roger). I definitely plan to get the 1st book and can't wait for the 3rd. Thank you, Steven Harms for a copy of this book.
March 5, 2022
A fun, exciting, fast paced action and thriller novel! This is the second book in the Roger Viceroy series, but I have not read the first one. This one works well as a stand alone book.
The Counsel of the Cunning takes you on a faced paced adventure deep into the Guatemalan jungle. Roger Viceroy, a private detective, and his team consisting of “Silk” and Regina are hired by a U.S. Senator to search for his son who has been missing for a decade. With multiple failed previous attempts, the Senator is hoping Viceroy and his team will have the investigative skills to find his son.
While Viceroy and Regina go on the search in Guatemala, Silk stays behind to do a little searching of his own. The team feels the Senator’s son’s disappearance is also linked to a new drug hitting the streets of Milwaukee. Each character has their own endearing story, which makes you route for them all.
I couldn’t stop turning pages and wondering who the mysterious Ghost of Guatemala is. I was on the edge of my seat with Viceroy and his team hoping they would survive!
Huge thanks to author Steven C. Harms for sending me his book in exchange for a review. I have become an instant fan and I cannot wait to read more about Viceroy and his team!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Counsel of the Cunning takes you on a faced paced adventure deep into the Guatemalan jungle. Roger Viceroy, a private detective, and his team consisting of “Silk” and Regina are hired by a U.S. Senator to search for his son who has been missing for a decade. With multiple failed previous attempts, the Senator is hoping Viceroy and his team will have the investigative skills to find his son.
While Viceroy and Regina go on the search in Guatemala, Silk stays behind to do a little searching of his own. The team feels the Senator’s son’s disappearance is also linked to a new drug hitting the streets of Milwaukee. Each character has their own endearing story, which makes you route for them all.
I couldn’t stop turning pages and wondering who the mysterious Ghost of Guatemala is. I was on the edge of my seat with Viceroy and his team hoping they would survive!
Huge thanks to author Steven C. Harms for sending me his book in exchange for a review. I have become an instant fan and I cannot wait to read more about Viceroy and his team!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 10, 2022
Roger Viceroy, a former law enforcement officer, gets approached by Jürgen Sandt, a retired U.S. Senator, to help Sandt solve a decade-long mystery of his son's disappearance in the Guatemalan jungle. Viceroy and his trusted companion, Regina, embark on a dangerous journey to the jungle, and their partner, Silk, continues the investigation in the States. There are several parallel story lines that take us through solving the mystery and the bigger picture behind it.
This suspense and adventure novel has many turns and twists. It did take me some time to get into it because of the multitude of characters and several story lines, but once some puzzle pieces started to come together, the second part of the book was a page-turner. The writing is very descriptive and I enjoyed the "final reveal" of the villain in the story, and how the MC walks the reader through the solving of the mystery. The adventure in the jungle was keeping me turning the pages, and the charters were interesting and unique.
If you enjoy adventure suspense novels with the trek through the jingle, kidnapping, corrupt officials and drug cartels investigations, check out this book. This is book two in the series, but works as a standalone read.
This suspense and adventure novel has many turns and twists. It did take me some time to get into it because of the multitude of characters and several story lines, but once some puzzle pieces started to come together, the second part of the book was a page-turner. The writing is very descriptive and I enjoyed the "final reveal" of the villain in the story, and how the MC walks the reader through the solving of the mystery. The adventure in the jungle was keeping me turning the pages, and the charters were interesting and unique.
If you enjoy adventure suspense novels with the trek through the jingle, kidnapping, corrupt officials and drug cartels investigations, check out this book. This is book two in the series, but works as a standalone read.
January 4, 2023
For fans of James Rollins, this suspenseful novel has many fun elements blended into it. There are action packed thrills, speculative fiction plot lines, and subtle faith based moments, too.
Some things I enjoyed about this book are:
-Fast paced writing
-Faith mixed into the story line
-Multiple POVs
-Unique and interesting plot
I should mention that I did not read the first novel in this series. While I was able to follow the second without too many issues, I would recommend reading the first to get a better feel for the characters and their back stories. I enjoyed their banter and friendship as they navigated the perils of their job. The chapters are short and can feel a bit fragmented at times, but stick through it to get to a Sherlock Holmes style type of finale.
Overall, I found this book to be entertaining and suspenseful once I got into the writing style and setting that was laid out. The second half was especially addicting as you want to figure out who the person behind the plot is and how they are going to stop the ensuing chaos. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book for review.
CW: Mild language, violence and gore (mild), drug addiction and death
Some things I enjoyed about this book are:
-Fast paced writing
-Faith mixed into the story line
-Multiple POVs
-Unique and interesting plot
I should mention that I did not read the first novel in this series. While I was able to follow the second without too many issues, I would recommend reading the first to get a better feel for the characters and their back stories. I enjoyed their banter and friendship as they navigated the perils of their job. The chapters are short and can feel a bit fragmented at times, but stick through it to get to a Sherlock Holmes style type of finale.
Overall, I found this book to be entertaining and suspenseful once I got into the writing style and setting that was laid out. The second half was especially addicting as you want to figure out who the person behind the plot is and how they are going to stop the ensuing chaos. Thank you to the author for a copy of this book for review.
CW: Mild language, violence and gore (mild), drug addiction and death
May 23, 2022
In this second installment, Roger Viceroy faces returning to the FBI after some time away. Former Senator Sandt also requests Viceroy’s assistance in finding his son. His son disappeared years ago in the jungles of Guatemala and some recent evidence shows he may be alive.
Even though this is the second book in a series, it read just fine as a stand-alone book. The writing was very vivid in painting the places and I was hooked from the excitement of the first few pages. Viceroy was highly intelligent but also relatable - he reminded me of Detective Goren in that sense (if you watch Law & Order Criminal Intent which was one of my favorites). There were quite a few twists and surprises. I love a thriller when I can’t guess what’s coming next and this definitely fit the bill. It was fast-paced which I also love in a thriller.
Thank you to Steven C. Harms for the copy of his book! I’m eager to check out the first installment and any sequels 🙂
This review will be shared to my Instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly.
Even though this is the second book in a series, it read just fine as a stand-alone book. The writing was very vivid in painting the places and I was hooked from the excitement of the first few pages. Viceroy was highly intelligent but also relatable - he reminded me of Detective Goren in that sense (if you watch Law & Order Criminal Intent which was one of my favorites). There were quite a few twists and surprises. I love a thriller when I can’t guess what’s coming next and this definitely fit the bill. It was fast-paced which I also love in a thriller.
Thank you to Steven C. Harms for the copy of his book! I’m eager to check out the first installment and any sequels 🙂
This review will be shared to my Instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly.
Read
April 10, 2022Thanks so much to the another for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really like the cover and the more I look at it the more details I notice. I think the cover does a good job of setting the jungle theme for this book.
This is the second book in a series but can be read as a standalone. This isn’t my typical read but sounded really intriguing, especially the setting being in a Guatemalan jungle. It’s a lot of police procedural mixed with action, kidnapping, murder, and an intricate plot revolving around drugs. There’s a lot of characters to follow and it’s one you have to pay close attention to. It took me a while to get into but it was a quick read. This book gave me movie-ish vibes.
I really like the cover and the more I look at it the more details I notice. I think the cover does a good job of setting the jungle theme for this book.
This is the second book in a series but can be read as a standalone. This isn’t my typical read but sounded really intriguing, especially the setting being in a Guatemalan jungle. It’s a lot of police procedural mixed with action, kidnapping, murder, and an intricate plot revolving around drugs. There’s a lot of characters to follow and it’s one you have to pay close attention to. It took me a while to get into but it was a quick read. This book gave me movie-ish vibes.
April 20, 2022
Summary: Former FBI agent Roger Viceroy has been called to action by Milwaukee beer mogul Juergen Sandt to help find his son who went missing on a service trip to Guatemala 10 years ago. But his missing son is not Sandt's only problem – his daughter is also addicted to a new street drug making its way into the US. Meanwhile, readers also hear from the producers of this new-addictive drug as they plan to get more and more people addicted throughout the US.
Why did I pick up this book: I was approached by the author for an honest review, as a result of my bookstagram profile! This is a huge milestone for me, and one of the reasons I wanted to enter the bookstagram community. When he sent me the summary, I was intrigued by the concept of a mystery with a whisper of fantasy.
What did I like about it: I love a multi-storyline, converging mystery that doesn't come together until the end. You spend so much time confused and just trying to get to the big reveal so that it can finally make sense! There were also some intense action scenes that kept me flipping the pages, and I did not see the ending coming at all. Plus, the quick chapters made the book fly by!
What did I not like about it: There were a few too many characters - I had to keep notes and would often forget who was who because there were a LOT of story lines. Additionally, I was surprised and slightly let down at how naïve and blindly trusting the detectives were.
Why did I pick up this book: I was approached by the author for an honest review, as a result of my bookstagram profile! This is a huge milestone for me, and one of the reasons I wanted to enter the bookstagram community. When he sent me the summary, I was intrigued by the concept of a mystery with a whisper of fantasy.
What did I like about it: I love a multi-storyline, converging mystery that doesn't come together until the end. You spend so much time confused and just trying to get to the big reveal so that it can finally make sense! There were also some intense action scenes that kept me flipping the pages, and I did not see the ending coming at all. Plus, the quick chapters made the book fly by!
What did I not like about it: There were a few too many characters - I had to keep notes and would often forget who was who because there were a LOT of story lines. Additionally, I was surprised and slightly let down at how naïve and blindly trusting the detectives were.
June 26, 2022
A fast-paced, action-packed thriller filled with mysteries, drugs, murder... and more. The story drew me in and I read it in a couple of sitting, as things kept happening and I didn't want to stop reading.
This is the second book in the series following the adventures of Roger Viceroy, but can easily be read as a standalone. The characters are well developed and the author did an excellent job in setting the scene with very vivid descriptions that made you feel part of the story.
Definitely a great book to read, and an excellent author to look out for.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series following the adventures of Roger Viceroy, but can easily be read as a standalone. The characters are well developed and the author did an excellent job in setting the scene with very vivid descriptions that made you feel part of the story.
Definitely a great book to read, and an excellent author to look out for.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2021
A complex, imaginative novel, The Counsel of the Cunning by Steven C. Harms, offers readers international thriller pacing combined with the precision of a police procedural and just the right gloss of mad scientist. It opens with a howler monkey and a kidnapped scientist, and it never slows down or lets up from there as the characters—good and bad—travel through vast landscapes and much danger. Broad in scope, the story is a bold adventure with harrowing interludes in which the prevailing question seems to be “what exactly is going on here?” Exciting!
April 13, 2022
Thank you to Steven C. Harms for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I wasn't sure in the first few chapters if I'd end up liking this book but at around 15% things picked up and I became invested in the story. I found the concept of a rogue rescue mission to be interesting and the politics and medical terrorism to be just scary enough to add an edge to the plot. It was clear you couldn't truly figure out any of the characters and it's going down as a book I recommend!
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